Evaluating open source GIS for libraries

Abstract

Purpose -The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of free and open source (FOSS) geographic information system (GIS) software within the broader contexts of the open source software movement and developments in GIS, and pose the question of whether libraries and academic departments should consider adopting FOSS GIS. Design/methodology/approach -The process of creating a basic thematic map was used to test six FOSS GIS software packages, as it is a multi-step process and a good example of a common task GIS users would want to perform. The test demonstrates what the process of creating a thematic map using FOSS GIS involves and how it compares to proprietary software like ArcGIS. Findings -Each of the individual FOSS GIS packages had their own particular strengths and weaknesses and some performed well for thematic mapping. The FOSS packages generally were weaker compared to ArcGIS in terms of support for various projection and coordinate systems, joining attribute data to GIS files, and automatic labeling, but their advantage is that they were free in terms of cost and licensing restrictions. When coupled with plug-ins and helper applications the viability of the FOSS GIS packages increased. Originality/value -There is little published research to date on the capabilities and applications of FOSS GIS despite the fact that it is a growing movement. This research provides a practical, application-based overview and critique of FOSS GIS.

Geospatial Data Collection Policies, Technology and Open Source in Websites of Academic Libraries Worldwide

“…Even though open-source systems are used by the library for diverse applications (e.g., "A Vision of Britain through Time") 11 or for the library, fulfilling functional requirements (Ottensmann 1997;Bishop & Mandel, 2010;Bishop e.a., 2011;Xia, 2004a;Xia, 2004b) yet they have not spread in libraries as the research indicates. This conclusion answers Donnelly's (2010) question regarding the lack of research data on the use of open systems and filling the gap in this field. Additionally, comes to confirm a recent study by Palmer & Choi (2014) who suggest that "there are many types of OSS that are of great importance to libraries, but have received comparatively little attention in the literature", such as an OSS GIS.…”

“…As a consequence, the technological infrastructure that libraries provide for the use of geographical data that have in their collection and the software used, have been investigated in the past (Garza, 2006;Sorice 2006;Gabaldon & Replinger, 2006). Our research responds to Donnelly's (2010) assertion that there is not enough research data for the use of open GIS systems in libraries.…”

The characteristics and motivations of library open source software developers: An empirical study

“…OSS communities innovate in a variety of application areas, including library software. Libraries increasingly depend on information systems, face diminished budgets, and have a consequent interest in adopting OSS (Donnelly, 2010). Therefore, this study illuminates LOSS developer backgrounds and motivations, the understanding of which helps libraries manage their unique IT environment.…”

“…Potential disadvantages of OSS include a traditionally low priority on software usability (Nichols & Twidale, 2003); no proof that private firms increase revenues from OSS adoption (Spinellis & Giannikas, 2012); and OSS failure to keep up with proprietary software in high-demand and quickly changing software development environments (Spinellis & Giannikas, 2012). Notwithstanding, the potential advantages are attractive to libraries, which generally face shrinking budgets (Donnelly, 2010), serve specific communities with unique information needs, and rely substantially on complex information systems such as integrated library systems (ILS), content management systems (CMS), and digital library software to provide quality service to patrons.…”

Proposal of a Python interface to OpenMI, as the base for open source hydrological framework

“…The libraries contain a code that provide services to independent programs. The GDAL [9] and PROJ4 projects are examples of libraries.…”